“I’m proud to put the badge on..” Talented youngster keen to help put Sheffield Wednesday ‘back up where we belong’ after contract confirmation

One of Sheffield Wednesday’s most highly-rated youngsters has extended a confident message to first team manager Darren Moore after his contract with the club was extended.
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Midfield man Liam Waldock 20, has been with the club since he was eight and impressed on his debut with the seniors in an EFL Cup match at Fulham last September.

It was Wednesday that exercised a year’s option on Waldock’s contract as the club look to get the most out of its academy system. The Star understands that Moore has been a central part in conversations over the Owls youngster’s futures and has watched several under-23s matches when his health has allowed.

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Relegation to League One means Wednesday will play in the Papa John’s Trophy next season, putting even more pressure on the fixture schedule. It remains to be seen whether Moore will use it as a further opportunity to blood some of his talented youngsters.

Sheffield Wednesday youngster Liam Waldock challenges former Owl Michael Hector for the ball on his first team debut against Fulham last year.Sheffield Wednesday youngster Liam Waldock challenges former Owl Michael Hector for the ball on his first team debut against Fulham last year.
Sheffield Wednesday youngster Liam Waldock challenges former Owl Michael Hector for the ball on his first team debut against Fulham last year.

It’s clear Waldock wants to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Liam Shaw and Osaze Urhoghide and build his case for a further taste of first team football going forward after he told swfc.co.uk, “I will be ready.”

“I’m so happy to be here,” he said. “I will be giving it everything I have and, although the situation at the moment with relegation is tough, we have got to come together and put us back up where we belong.

“If I can play a part and help in any way, I will be ready. I fully believe in the manager we have and that he can get the best out of us. Any of the lads would say the same. Not just the manager, but his coaches as well, they have been excellent since coming in, we really enjoy their sessions.

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“As the season went on, I knew I wanted to be part of it here and sort my contract to stay. I’m delighted. In September I will turn 21, so I’m at a good age now to push on.

“I don’t take anything for granted, I value my position here, I’m proud to put the badge on every day and come in to train, I’m proud to represent the club.

“I want to keep on like this and make my family proud.”

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